Excellence in Curriculum Development and Assessment

Pharmacy and other health sciences educators have often faced curriculum and assessment issues. However, as expectations for accountability and assessment have continued to grow for higher education institutions, there is increasing concern about the development of assessment plans and the appropriate use of assessment data. A variety of approaches have been used for development of both curriculum and program assessment plans. Although there is no single correct method for accomplishing either task, there are important principles, concepts, characteristics, and approaches that should be considered, such as beginning with well-defined student learning outcomes, using educational approaches designed to facilitate student achievement of those outcomes, and designing assessment strategies that target the specific outcomes. Faculty at schools and colleges of pharmacy need to understand educational concepts and theories, the principles/characteristics of effective assessment programs, obstacles to assessment plan development and ways to minimize them, and methods to create an environment conducive to curriculum and assessment efforts. They should also consider their own unique circumstances when undertaking curriculum modifications and preparing/implementing a comprehensive assessment plan. Professional associations and accrediting agencies can also fill an important role by assisting schools and colleges in their efforts to improve student learning.